“Radiant Orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid emanates great joy, love and health.”
– Pantone
Do you enjoy trends? Do you like to incorporate decorating into your gardening? Maybe you’re just looking for “something different.” Well, 2014 has something for you!
Radiant Orchid is here. Designated by the color-of-the-year folks at Pantone, Radiant Orchid 18-3224 currently wears the decorating and fashion crown. Described as “a captivating, magical, enigmatic purple”, it’s similar to the color of the Phalaenopsis orchid you frequently see.
Here are a few ideas for incorporating this edgy color:
Plants
For a touch of Radiant Orchid in your plantings, try one (or more!) of the purple peonies now available. Other plants in this color range include Rose Campion (Lychnis coronaria), Hollyhock (Alcea rosea cv), Petunia, Four o’clock (Mirabilis jalapa cv), Winecups (Callirhoe bushii), Hardy orchid (Bletilla striata), Geraniums sanguineum, (Pelargonium cv), and Anemone rosea, Purple De Oro Daylily, Fritillaria, Persica, or purple aster.
Let’s not overlook leaf colors. Several heucheras (including the new ‘Blackberry Ice’) and magnolias tingle with this color, as do some Japanese maples. Use Centaurea ‘caramia’ as a light-toned Radiant Orchid. The color provides a beautiful backdrop to lighter and brighter colors but becomes smoky and mysterious when highlighted. Imagine a Cotinus coggygria ‘Royal Purple’ as a specimen focal point to your garden.
Decorating the Garden
What a spectacular color for pillows and cushions on lawn furniture! It gives a richness and color depth without detracting from the beauty of the garden. Paint some flowerpots or birdhouses. Decorating is for the birds, too! Imagine a Radiant Orchid birdbath or small fountain. The possibilities are endless.
Decorating the House
What’s good for the outside is also good for inside. Imagine a couple of Radiant Orchid accent pillows to coordinate with houseplants such as African violets, begonias, coleus, wandering Jews, and colocasia. Picture a Radiant Orchid birdbath as a side table during the winter to bring the garden indoors.
Think of all the fun! Check out your garden center for other examples of this truly inspiring color.
